Oceanside Bans Medical Marijuana Shops for 45 Days

SAN DIEGO  A city in San Diego County has temporarily banned the opening of medical marijuana dispensaries within its limits after hearing lengthy arguments both for and against the issue.

The Oceanside City Council adopted the 45-day moratorium Wednesday night to give officials time to come up with regulations for the operation of dispensaries. The moratorium can be extended for up to two years.

City Attorney John Mullen told the council that although Oceanside currently has no medical marijuana facilities, someone recently inquired about opening one.

Associate Planner Juliana von Hacht said that in some cities, medical marijuana stores have led to increased crime, traffic and noise.